Upper East Side: A Clash of Titans

A walking tour exploring the splendor and history of the East 60s & 70s.

Explore one of the most luxurious neighborhoods in the world as we delve into the personalities, scandals, and institutions that have made it so legendary. While emphasizing the Gilded Age, our tour will discuss the evolution of the area from the late 18th century farmland through the early 19th century development and ultimately its “discovery” by the New York elites – the Upper 400. Stops could include: the Park Avenue Armory, the elegant Frick Mansion, as well as the Marcel Breuer’s Brutalist museum. We will also explore sites associated with Richard Morris Hunt, Caroline Schermerhorn Astor, Stanford White, as well as the Morgan, Tiffany, Vanderbilt and Whitney families.

Have a group or special event?

Consider a private tour!

We’ve done tours for school example, group example and corporate example.
Whether you are looking to integrate a tour into your academic curriculm or
entertaining out-of-towners, a Big Onion walking tour is a great way to experience the city.

Private tours can be arranged for a weekday, weekend, day or evening. We can accommodate up to 500 walkers.
We work closely with you to create an enjoyable experience for your group.

Please call us at (212) 439-1090 ext 5 or email us for more information or to arrange.

Guides
The finest group of tour guides in the city. Most of us are full-time graduate
students researching and writing doctoral dissertations in history passionate
about the history, architecture and people of New York. More about our guides.

Refund Policy
Full refunds are available by request up until 72 hours prior to a walking tour. Between 72 and 24 hours prior to the scheduled tour we offer credit to be used on any future walk. Cancellations with less than 24 hours prior to the tour or no shows will not be refunded.

Walks are held rain or shine, but may be cancelled for severe weather or if
museum is closed. No shows are considered last-minute cancellations and are
non-refundable. In the event of a Big Onion cancellation or museum closure,
full refunds or rescheduled tickets will be offered.